2015 Ford Expedition adds EcoBoost power and Platinum trim

by Bob Nagy | February 19, 2014 10:32 AM

Getting its formal reveal on the eve of the DFW Auto Show in Dallas, Texas, the 2015 Ford Expedition boasts a fresher look, a more connected character, enhanced dynamics and a new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Continuing in standard and EL (119-inch/131-inch wheelbase) configurations, the 2015 Expedition models will offer a range-topping Platinum trim grade when it goes on sale this fall. The Expedition's function-focused remix follows the same basic formula used by Lincoln to update its full-size 2015 Navigator, which also will roll out of the Blue Oval's truck plant in Louisville, Kentucky.

While modest in scope, visual changes to the 2015 Expedition's fascias add more contemporary flair to the package. Up front, the soft cap is edgier, a look complemented by new lighting elements - including available LED fog lamps - plus a bolder lower valance treatment. The rear sports a redesigned liftgate and new chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets. In addition to new colors that are specifically keyed to the XLT, Limited, King Ranch and new Platinum trims, the 2015 Expedition lineup also gets redesigned alloy wheels that range up to 22 inches in diameter.

For many, the most meaningful change on the 2015 Ford Expedition will be found underhood where the current 5.4-liter V8 gives way to Ford's well-proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 as sole engine in the North American market. While final figures on the popular twin-turbo/direct-injected engine have yet to be released, they'll at least match the 365-horsepower/420 lb-ft of torque it produces when fitted to an F-150 pickup. Both numbers handily exceed the 310/365 output stats of the current V8, and promise to add a good deal more snap to the Expedition's overall performance. The EcoBoost engine is also expected to deliver significantly better fuel economy in both rear-drive and 4-wheel drive models. While gear-changing will still be handled by a 6-speed automatic, for 2015 the transmission adds SelectShift manual-style capability.

Although the 2015 Expedition's standard fully-independent suspension is largely carryover, it does gain more energy-efficient electric power steering that improves driver feedback across the entire speed range. The Expedition also will be the first Ford-badged product to offer the automaker's trick Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system as an option. The tri-mode (Comfort/Normal/Sport) CCD setup constantly reads and reacts to 46 different steering/braking/dynamic inputs. It alters shock absorber settings in milliseconds to minimize unwanted body motion and enhance overall ride comfort.

Pricing, EPA figures and final equipment details for the 2015 Ford Expedition will be announced closer to its arrival in dealer showrooms.